Pickup trucks remain one of the most popular vehicle segments in the U.S. With so many people striving to get behind the wheel of these models, it's only natural that there would be a high degree of competition among the biggest names. However, one automaker stood out from the rest during the latest Motor Trend Truck of the Year contest.
Ram 1500 wins the top prize
The auto magazine
named the 2015 Ram 1500 as the winner of this prestigious annual honor. It was selected as the best out of a group that included the 2015 Chevrolet Silverado and the 2015 Ford F-150. Models were judged during a 260-mile trek through the western U.S., with specific tests focusing on towing power, fuel economy, payload strength, braking and accelerating, and standard driving.
"Our comparison of the latest half-ton pickup trucks was as exhaustive as it was comprehensive, because this segment is so important and so competitive. We
evaluated every aspect of these trucks we could and debated long and hard over their merits," said Scott Evans, associate editor, Motor Trend Magazine. "In the end, the Ram EcoDiesel's excellent ride quality both loaded and empty, torquey engine, smooth and intelligent transmission, ease in towing, comfortable and refined interior, and best-in-test fuel economy proved the winning combination."
What separates the 2015 Ram 1500 modelsÂ
According to Motor Trend, the Ram 1500 also separated itself from competitors thanks to its versatility. It can be outfitted with a number of different features and trim options, allowing the pickup to thrive completing heavy-duty work on a farm or acting as a luxury model. The magazine noted that truck enthusiasts have a wide range of needs, but the capabilities of the Ram - whether it's the payload and towing or precise handling - are well-suited to excelling in any circumstance.
Although the Ram 1500 continues to collect awards year after year, it still lags behind the Ford F-Series in popularity. That could be attributed to a number of different factors, ranging from exterior looks to
vehicle maintenance, but the Ram 1500 is closing the gap. Should the truck keep winning awards, it could pose a serious threat to Ford in the near future.